Xypex® is a non-toxic, chemical treatment for the
waterproofing and protection of concrete. Xypex's primary and most distinguishing
performance feature is its unique ability to generate a non-soluble crystalline
formation deep within the pores and capillary tracts of the concrete -- a
crystalline structure that permanently seals the concrete against the penetration
of water and other liquids from any direction.
Presentation on Xypex®
HOW DOES XYPEX® WORK?
To create its crystalline waterproofing effect, Xypex® must
become an integral part of the concrete mass. This is based on two simple reactions, one
chemical and the other physical. Concrete is both porous (capillary tract system) and
chemical in nature. By means of diffusion, the reactive chemicals in Xypex®
use water as a migrating medium to enter and travel through the capillary tracts in the
concrete. This process precipitates a chemical reaction between Xypex®,
moisture and the natural chemical by-products of cement hydration (calcium hydroxide,
mineral salts, mineral oxides and unhydrated and partially hydrated cement particles).
The result is crystallization and, ultimately, a non-soluble crystalline structure that
plugs the pores and capillary tracts of the concrete. This will continue to migrate through
the concrete and the crystalline growth will form behind this advancing front of chemicals.
This process will reactivate whenever water is present, thus
making the concrete totally sealed against the penetration of water (or other liquids)
from any direction.
HOW LONG DOES IT LAST?
A Xypex® application, UNLIKE MOST
OTHER SYSTEMS, is permanent. The fibrous crystalline growth, due to its unique composition,
will not deteriorate under normal conditions. Our children's children will benefit from
applications of Xypex today.
HOW IS XYPEX® DIFFERENT FROM OTHER PRODUCTS?
The process by which Xypex® waterproofs concrete is unique in
that Xypex® is a CATALYST. This crystalline growth is highly resistant
to extreme water pressure from either side of the concrete and also to most aggressive chemicals.
Since the process is catalytic, the crystalline structure can reactivate many years after the
original application, to seal or re-seal many defects which might occur in the concrete at a later time.
The crystallization process that Xypex® causes within the pores and capillary
tracts of concrete is illustrated below in electron microscope photos taken by an independent research team.
1. CONCRETE (UNTREATED)
A control sample
of concrete was sheared through at 50mm below the top surface. The sheared face shows some
of the by-products of cement hydration with which Xypex® reacts. Precipitated
calcium hydroxide together with cubic and rhombic particles are visible.
2. XYPEX® CRYSTALLIZATION (INITIATION)
Taken
at 50mm within a Xypex-treated concrete sample, This photograph shows the initiation of
the Xypex® crystalline reaction after Xypex® Concentrate
was applied to the surface.
3. XYPEX® CRYSTALLIZATION (MATURE)
This
photo was taken 26 days after the application of Xypex® Concentrate at a depth
of 50mm into the concrete sample. A dense, fully developed crystalline structure has formed within the
capillary tracts of the concrete to completely block the flow of water.
The above steps depict the process by which Xypex® penetrates and blocks the flow of
water and other liquids.
WHY XYPEX®?
Xypex® introduces a reactive, dynamic densification process which continues
throughout the life of the concrete. Being a permanent enhancement, Xypex® will
extend the service life of the concrete. Unlike barrier methods, Xypex® penetrates
and waterproofs the concrete itself -- not just the surface. While other products degrade over time,
Xypex® continues on.
XYPEX® BENEFITS
Xypex® is less expensive than other methods such as membranes with protective boards.
Xypex® is construction-schedule friendly, and it can be applied immediately after the
forms are stripped.
Xypex® cannot puncture, tear, or fall apart at the seams -- and it needs no special
sealing, lapping, or seam finishing.
Xypex® needs no protective layers for backfill, and it leave no ugly tar line to
interfere with landscaping.
Xypex® is breathable. It blocks water in liquid form, but allows water vapor to escape,
so the concrete can dry completely.
Xypex® is self-healing. New cracks in the concrete (up to 1/64") will mend with new
crystalline growth.
Xypex® is environmentally friendly - approved by the E.P.A. and the NSF.
Xypex® protects concrete. Crystalline waterproofing stops transportation of water and
rust-accelerating electrolytes to the reinforcing steel.
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